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Case 152 - Local Council bans dog classes

Issue

A local council has banned dog classes, training sessions and dog shows from being held in their community halls on the grounds of health and safety.

Panel decision

This is a clear example of health and safety being misused. Health and safety law does not prevent the council from using its community halls for dog training clubs, and they have been run successfully for many years. Any concerns about allergies and cleanliness can be easily managed and the need for properly "house trained" dogs should be made clear to all dog owners who attend. A few sensible health and safety precautions are all that should be required to allow these activities to take continue.